Bicentennial Timeline

Not all wore helmets

Not all wore helmets

Illinois State University's World War I Service Collection includes all sorts of gems, including this postcard of Napoleon's tomb, received by ISNU Librarian Angeline Vernon Milner from former student...

Jasper County's 1831 formation is approved. The county is named for a Revolutionary War hero Sergeant Jasper, who served in South Carolina and Georgia under General William Moultrie. Jasper and fellow soldier Sergeant Newton became the named heroes of an embellished story told by Parson Mason Weems in The Life of Francis Marion. Many Midwestern place names recognize the feats related by Weems in his work.

Historical Markers

Since 1934, the Illinois State Historical Society has erected more than 500 historical markers statewide. Subjects of historical significance to Illinois are co-sponsored by local organizations and supporters. The Illinois State Historical Society coordinates the placement and management of historical markers throughout the state.

Submit your Bicentennial event

Do you have an exciting local history news story or an event that you would like to share? Use this form to submit it and after a quick review it will be added to our news roll or events calendar. There is even a special category for Bicentennial events. The goal is to add news and events from all over the state to celebrate Illinois’ rich history. Get involved and get the word out about news and events in your area.

Latest News

In a traditional New Year’s Eve celebration dating back to 1722, the La Guiannee singers will visit houses and Fort de Chartres in the early French town of Prairie du Rocher and sing for the residents. As part of the tradition, the residents provide refreshments for the singers at each stop.

Please do not use this button to submit or follow-up on submissions for the Illinois Heritage or Journal of the Illinois State Historical Society. Instead visit the links below for the correct submission information.